Systematics and diversities of Cinnamomum species used as "cinnamon" spice in North-East India.

Abstract

A systematic census of Cinnamomum species used as "cinnamon" spice in Northeast India was conducted during 1994-1997. Fourteen taxa with variable phenotypic and odoriferous characters were collected. On critical study with emphasis to their morphology, foliar epidermal and venation characters these taxa revealed to be comprising of seven species namely C. assamicum Nath & Baruah, C. bejolghota (Buch.-Ham.) Sweet, C. cassia Blume, C. iners Reinw., C. pauciflorum Nees, C. sulphuratum Nees and C. verum Presl. For each taxon latest botanical names alongwith its synonyms, taxonomic citations, morphological descriptions (variant, if any), phenology, occurrence, distribution, uses and significant foliar epidermal and venation characters have been appended. A taxonomic key to differentiate the taxa, formulated on the basis of evaluated characters, has also been provided.